It’s all about the children this Sunday.
On White Sunday, or Lotu Tamaiti, the traditional roles of parents are reversed, when they serve their children and not the other way around.
The beginnings of White Sundays can be traced back to the 19th century, and was started by the London Missionary Society to honor children. This, after the early missionaries saw that in the traditional family setting, children are the ones that perform chores, prepare food for their parent and were the last ones to eat.
So on white Sunday, the children become VIPs.
They take center stage at church services and in their homes. Dressed in their finest white attire, the children will sing hymns, perform Biblical skits, offer prayers and perform other roles usually done by adults. And they will be served the biggest Sunday feast with all their favorite foods.
It is believed that food sales for White Sunday match that of Christmas.
While the religious observance of White Sunday was practiced only by the Congregational Christian Church in the early days, now, nearly all church denominations have joined.
White Sunday is also observed in many other countries with big Samoan communities.
With all the food that will be consumed on Sunday, it comes as a relief that Monday is the Columbus Day holiday, to allow the children and adults alike to recover before they return to school and workplaces on Tuesday.
White Sunday Messages
The leader of the Catholic Church in American, Samoa Bishop Kolio Etuale Tumanuvao, said in a message for the children, “As you celebrate White Sunday this year, I want you to know that you are always in my thoughts and prayers. Your innocence, curiosity, and boundless potential inspire hope in all of us. I wish to convey my deepest well wishes to each and every one of you on this special Sunday. May you always be protected, nourished, and guided toward a life of purpose and fulfillment.”
Congresswoman Uifa’atali Amata stated, “White Sunday is a special tradition among our people! As a people of strong faith, we celebrate our youthful generations that will go on to serve God, follow our way, and lead our people in the future.
“White Sunday is a beautiful reminder of the importance of our faith and Christian commitment. On this day, we celebrate with the children of our islands, knowing they are a gift to us from the Lord. Most of all, we take part in worship and praise, and seek God’s blessings on our families and children. Have a wonderful White Sunday!”
